The Rise of Vocational Education and Skilled Trades

Francisco Galindo, Assistant Vice President of PR and Stakeholder Management, Lincoln Tech

Francisco Galindo, Assistant Vice President of PR and Stakeholder Management, Lincoln Tech

Francisco Galindo, Assistant Vice President of PR and Stakeholder Management at Lincoln Tech, is a marketing and advertising professional specializing in higher education and technical training. With extensive experience in project management, partnership development, and compliance, he has successfully collaborated with industry leaders to promote workforce training programs that support economic growth and infrastructure development. Galindo’s effective communication skills and customized approach to solving complex problems enable him to connect with colleagues, stakeholders, and upper management, driving positive, measurable outcomes.

Great Shift in Student Enrollment

In recent years, we have observed a notable shift in student enrollment trends, particularly among Generation Z, who are increasingly choosing skilled trades and vocational training over traditional four-year college degrees. They are now considering alternative routes that provide practical skills, increased job security, and greater financial stability. This movement is redefining the landscape of education and workforce development.

“The road to strong economic recovery is through education. The skilled trades are an important part of the education landscape and critical to the infrastructure of our country”

We also see a steady increase in student enrollment, particularly among underserved communities such as Hispanic students. The demand for technical training is not only rising overall but is also becoming more diverse, as more women are entering skilled trades than ever before. Women in welding, for example, are gaining recognition for their attention to detail and precision work. Some female students are pursuing welding not only as a career but also as a creative trade, using their skills to craft welding-based artwork.

The Influence of Social Media on Career Choices

Platforms like TikTok have played a major role in shaping career aspirations for young people. Trade professionals on social media are showcasing their work, earning potential, and career growth, making vocational careers more visible and appealing.

Many students who initially pursued a traditional college degree are rethinking their choices after seeing firsthand success stories from skilled trade professionals. This online movement is breaking down stereotypes about trade careers and demonstrating the financial advantages of entering the workforce through vocational training.

Addressing Student Needs

Recognizing these trends, we have taken proactive steps to adapt Lincoln Tech’s educational model to meet the needs of modern students. One of the most significant changes has been the introduction of hybrid learning models, allowing students to complete lecture-based coursework online while attending in-person sessions for hands-on training. This approach makes education more accessible to students who need to balance work and family commitments.

We also place a great emphasis on real-world, hands-on training. Programs include labs for hands-on practice in fields like automotive, electrical, and HVAC, as well as clinical rotations and internships/externships for medical programs such as practical nursing and medical assisting. This experiential learning approach ensures that students graduate workforce-ready and can transition into employment with ease.

Our strong relationships with local and national employers ensure that students are learning the most relevant and in-demand skills. We meet with industry leaders annually to evaluate curriculum effectiveness and identify emerging trends in the workforce. Employers provide feedback on the latest tools and techniques students should be trained on, ensuring that graduates enter the job market with the skills employers need today. Many students receive job offers before graduating, thanks to our extensive employer network.

Technology in Vocational Training

Technology is becoming a key driver in enhancing vocational education. We have partnered with Electude, a European company, to introduce state-of-the-art training aids that provide a modern learning experience.

These advanced tools help students visualize and interact with complex mechanical and electrical systems, whether in automotive technology, HVAC, or electrical trades. By integrating modern equipment into the curriculum, we ensure that graduates are fully prepared for the evolving demands of the workforce.

Legislative and Government Support

Government policies on vocational education significantly impact our growth and accessibility. The current administration is more supportive of for-profit vocational institutions, recognizing their role in workforce development. For-profit schools have faced historical challenges due to past institutions closing abruptly, leaving students with debt and no credentials. However, with strict accreditation and regulatory standards, along with strong industry partnerships, vocational schools provide high-quality education with measurable outcomes.

Some state governments, like Tennessee, are emphasizing workforce development through vocational training. Initiatives include providing vocational training to incarcerated individuals to reduce recidivism, investing in trade education to fill critical workforce gaps, and incentivizing employers to hire vocational graduates. These policy shifts are making skilled trades a more viable long-term career path.

The Financial Advantage of Choosing Skilled Trades

A major reason students opt for vocational training is financial practicality. Lincoln Tech graduates typically leave with only $10,000 to $12,000 in debt—far lower than the average university student loan burden. Additionally, the average starting salary for trade school graduates often matches or exceeds their total tuition costs, allowing them to achieve financial independence much sooner.

In contrast, most college graduates face tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in student debt, uncertain job prospects in competitive industries, and limited career readiness due to a lack of hands-on training.

Looking Ahead

We believe the road to strong economic recovery is through education. Skilled trades are an essential part of the education landscape and critical to the infrastructure of our country. With advancements in technology, supportive legislation, and growing industry demand, vocational education is proving to be a vital and rewarding alternative to traditional college degrees. As this trend continues to gain momentum, skilled trades will remain a critical component of the evolving job market.